Reflection: Remembering Those Who Serve in War

This stunning picture book on Anzac Day is a tribute
to those who serve, and served, in war. The cover is outstanding as are the
illustrations by Robin Cowcher in pen and ink, with watercolours washes. The
ochre shaded cover and light colour pages are extremely effective with the
media used. It’s obvious that a great deal of consideration and care has gone
into the presentation of this book and the messages it carries.

The text is moving and fully engages all the senses.
It is a dual depiction; one showing the people’s participation in remembrance,
and the other from the soldiers’ activities in various wars. This is an
exceptional book in every way. The watercolour washes bring something unique to
the story. The meaningful use of red is perfect.

I loved that all the wars are addressed on a double
page spread at the end. This is extremely significant to the whole book.

There is an author’s note about how the ideas came
about. It serves to remind us about the importance of our commemorative
services and the price of freedom.

The illustrator’s note reveals how the dual experiences
were linked and the challenges faced in translating this significant work.

This book will be the ideal project resource for
young people looking to learn about our servicemen and women who took part in
war. There will be discussions around the content which will create a deeper
interest that will initiate further research. It’s a beautiful book worth
having and giving, for all ages.